All Car Servicing

All Car Servicing

Hi I would like to introduce myself. Working in the Garage and tyre and all Car Servicing business now for 40 years. So. worked for a couple of national tyre companies before starting my first business. Of course, I now own a company here in the UK called Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre. Blogging about anything to do with Car Servicing and their related products. Naturally, that will help my business. We are members of Point-S and MotorCodes and are also a Unipart Car Care Centre.

car suspension parts

Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test

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Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test

Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test
Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test

Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test

Especially with female drivers. The little car also makes a good city car, with very little problem when getting around town and parking. The Corsa is well known for its light steering;

(power steering), which makes the little car easy to manoeuvre, along with its good rear-end visibility, makes the car easy to park, and is a favourite with the lady drivers.

Vauxhall introduced the car in 1993, and it has proven to be a very successful model for the sizable automaker. The car has also remained cheap to buy, both new and second-hand. We recently purchased a Vauxhall  Corsa from one of our lady customers to be used as one of our courtesy cars, and it has proven to be a little gem and popular with our lady drivers, who use the car when leaving their own car for servicing or repairs.

The Corsa has a few drawbacks- Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test

Size-wise, this car is not for taller people. Also, the car is very cramped when driving with four adults (two fronts and two rears). Additionally, they are also not very suitable for out-of town open-road driving. Significantly noisy due to road and engine noise. Also, they do not corner very well. Especially with a full car of adults.

However, despite this, the little super mini is very popular amongst younger people. As this is the first car that many first-time drivers can usually afford , Corsa’s can be found at bargain prices, and as I have said earlier, the lady drivers love to drive them around town, and they are easy to park.

The running costs of these little cars are one of its assets

the little 1.0-liter cars can do as many as 50 mpg and the diesel versions can come up figures of 60 mpg, making the car a good

choice for the economically minded driver. The insurance is also very low; most normal-sized engine cars come into the lowest insurance groups possible. The Corsa is also cheap to service, making the car, as I have said earlier, cheap and economical to run, favouring the money-conscious lady drivers and the young first-time car buyers.

Vauxhall Corsa cars have had several factory recalls- Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test

These little cars are usually trouble-free when it comes to mechanical problems, apart from the usual wear and tear items such as tyres, exhausts, suspension, and brake parts, but there have been a few recall problems with cars between 2000 and 2006.

The following problems included: air bag problems due to faulty software; faulty seat adjustment catches and springs, causing the seat to move or not lock;

steering wheel problems- Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test

the centre nut that holds the steering wheel in place was not tightened correctly, causing the steering  wheel to wobble. The early Corsa had also cam-belt problems; they should be changed every 40,000 miles promptly, or a damaged engine could follow,

One of our long-standing lady customers dropped off her car for a service and an MOT test. She said that the car was in excellent condition and should pass the test. Dale Linton tested the car and found that all sorts of things were wrong. The steering and suspension had lots of play in them; the car also had a broken spring and also failed the emissions test.

We always call our customers before working on their car and we always save the old parts for them to look at.

The Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test.  Requiring new front control arms (known as wishbones to some people). Including a new spring and a new lambda sensor. The lady said that she could hear some knocking coming from the front of the Vauxhall Corsa. When she drove over speed bumps, she did not think much about it. She gave us permission to complete the work. So, new control arms were fitted.

We know that you can fit new control arm bushes.

  But this takes much longer, and by the time you have removed the old bushes and fitted new ones,. Of course, we can fit a complete new arm. The costs work out about the same because of the labour factor.

We fitted a new lambda sensor and a new spring. So, before MOT re-test the Vauxhall Corsa and then service it. The car is now a far better ride than when she brought it in and the lady customer noticed this and thanked us for our great service.

car brakes problem

Anti-Lock Brake Systems: ABS

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Anti-Lock braking systems

Anti-Lock Brake Systems
Anti-Lock Brake Systems

Anti-Lock Brake Systems

So, this is one of the things that I am most proud of. Of course, I have been a garage owner! Is it when a customer contacts my garage for a brake problem to be sorted out? Subsequently, it appears not to be the price that the person is worried about. Because they know how important it is to have good brakes on their car.

Before we remove the wheels, we examine the brakes. So, generally, we have a blank canvas to work from. We know that most cars get to the stage of having practically no brakes! Then the braking system will be in pretty bad shape. Believe me, they usually are.

Back in the old days! Then the car’s brakes were a much simpler affair to diagnose and repair. Of course, with only the upper end of the market cars. Having any type of electrical modification in order to aid better braking. As in almost all the car developments. So, brakes were originally tested and tried on motorsport vehicles. A long time before being tried and tested on average road cars. Including the beginning of the ABS braking systems! Importantly, those are in common use today.

At first, Anti-lock braking systems only came out on prestige cars such as BMW and Mercedes

But many drivers had not heard of them before; in fact, we still get customers today who do not know what it means when their ABS warning light comes on and have to be investigated. Twenty years ago, many vehicle owners were given the option of having ABS brakes or not, a similar sort of thing to fitting alloy wheels or steel wheels; they were an optional extra.

Anti-Lock braking systems work differently to a standard braking system

ABS brakes do act differently from a normal braking system. The main two advantages are that when you are braking on a wet, slippery road surface, or, say, on ice, your car will stop quicker; this also applies to normal roads, of course. Also, the car will handle much better when the driver has to brake and steer at the same time. Once again, in bad weather conditions, the car will handle much better than when using a conventional braking system.

In any normal driving situation,

such as stopping at traffic lights or at a road junction, the Anti-Lock Braking Systems do not activate, but if you need to brake sharply and suddenly, the Anti-Lock Braking Systems will be activated and assist you in braking more safely.

The Anti-Lock Brake Systems send out pulses of pressure instead of the single pressure that is exerted when braking a normal car. You can actually feel the pulses coming through the brake pedal when you have to exert pressure on the brake pedal in an emergency stop. It’s also crucial to keep in mind that if you do encounter a challenging situation, such as snow or a non-tarmac road, you will still need to slow down because your ABS system won’t be able to assist you.

The main benefit of Anti-Lock Braking Systems is that the driver has full control when braking and steering at the same time, which can help the driver steer away from danger; they prevent the wheel from locking in certain conditions.

Practice your ABS brake system—Anti-Lock Brake Systems

In my experience, it has always been a good idea to take your car and practise with the brakes if you are driving a car fitted with ABS brakes for the first time and get used to the different feel of the brakes when going straight and when steering.

The in-cab ABS warning light may come on if there is a fault with the ABS system or the normal braking system. If the warning light comes on, then you should have the brakes looked at as soon as possible. In our experience it is usually something simple, such as a faulty electrical connection or even that the car needs a set of new pads. You can also find problems with Anti-Lock Brake Systems and other Anti Lock Brake Parts. Once the problem has been found and rectified, the ABS warning light can be reset with a computer.

Also sell Firestone Tyres online from our website www.pellontyres.co.uk. By using the tyre selector and choosing your tyre size. We offer courtesy cars to local motorists who need to go to work. Also an official MOT testing station that carries out checks for high standards of equipment and workmanship.

Oil Filter Collapse

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Oil Filter Collapse

Oil Filter Collapse
Oil Filter Collapse

Oil Filter Collapse

The Value of Routine Maintenance: A Peugeot Partner Case Study from Halifax’s Pellon Tyres

We recently had a Peugeot Partner vehicle come in for a standard service at Pellon Tyres in Halifax. As part of our routine inspections, we removed the oil filter and found it in terrible condition—old, worn out, and clearly beyond its time for a change. This incident is a clear reminder of the importance of routine maintenance for all vehicles, but particularly for dependable vans like the Peugeot Partner.

What Causes Oil Filters to Degrade? Oil Filter Collapse

Because they capture dirt, debris, and metal particles that naturally build up in engine oil over time, oil filters are essential to maintaining the engine’s cleanliness. A car may have a number of issues if its oil is not changed for an extended period of time.

Clogging: The filter gets clogged when impurities build up, which lowers the engine’s oil flow. Increased friction and wear on important parts may result from this.

Filter Material Breakdown: The paper component of the filter may degrade over time, letting unfiltered oil flow through the engine and causing more contaminants.

Oil Degradation: Without frequent replacement, oil loses its lubricating qualities and becomes a viscous sludge that further impedes oil flow and increases the risk of engine damage or overheating.

Neglecting Oil Changes and Its Effects: Oil Filter Collapse

Given the Peugeot Partner’s degraded and outdated filter, it appeared that the car had outlived its stated servicing interval. The engine must work harder when filters and oil aren’t changed on time, which might result in:

Fuel consumption rises as a result of the engine’s decreased efficiency due to dirty oil.

Increased wear and tear: Unfiltered impurities hasten engine deterioration, which may necessitate expensive repairs.

Possible malfunctions: In severe situations, a blocked filter may potentially result in total engine failure.

The Local Aspect: Driving Conditions in Halifax Are Important- Oil Filter Collapse

Vehicles frequently encounter difficult driving conditions in Halifax, including steep hills and stop-start traffic. Because of the additional pressure these conditions place on the engine, routine maintenance is even more crucial. Vans like the Peugeot Partner are essential to businesses that depend on them in order to prevent unplanned downtime.

Avoid Skipping Your Service—It Will Pay Off! Oil Filter Collapse

We at Pellon Tyres consistently emphasise the value of regular maintenance, particularly for commercial vehicles with significant mileage. Maintaining regular oil and filter changes helps your car stay dependable and fuel-efficient while also extending the life of your engine.

Now is the perfect time to schedule a service if you have been putting it off or are unaware of when your last one was. Regular oil filter maintenance is a minor investment that may save you a lot of money over time. Don’t let a neglected oil filter lead to expensive repairs.

Come see us at Pellon Tyres in Halifax for skilled maintenance and knowledgeable guidance. We’ll make sure your car remains in excellent condition and prepared for anything the roads may bring!

car brakes problem

Brake Juddering Causes: What is it?

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Brake Juddering Causes

Brake Juddering Causes
Braking Problems Highlighted

Brake Juddering Causes

Foot pedal vibrations lead to the brake juddering experience

So, one of the first signs of Brake Juddering Causes. Firstly, you can feel a vibration coming through your foot pedal. Secondly, when you press the clutch pedal,. So, brake and stop your car. Some of our customers say that it was a long drawn-out process. Eventually, though, the brake began to get worse. Including the vibrations starting to come through the steering wheel.

Unfortunately, some of our customers think-Brake Juddering Causes

that the vibration is a wheel balancing problem! We also have to check out the problem with a correct diagnosis. However, a braking problem will usually come through the brake pedal. So then this is a sure sign of a brake problem.

Unfortunately, one of the main causes of brake jerks comes from elderly drivers. Significantly, they always cover the brake pedal with their right foot. This applies to manual gear changes or automatic; they are what I call “ride the brake” Some drivers also do this with the clutch, but that’s a different article to cover.

What happens if you ride the brake? Well, one of the problems is that you are applying extra pressure to the brake pads that are constantly in contact with the brake discs (brake rotors in the USA). These in turn heat the discs, and the discs then warp and go out of shape.

Brake juddering is a bigger problem in hilly areas

In my opinion, though, driver fault is not the main reason for warped brake discs. I think that the main cause is the terrain. We here in Halifax are in a hilly area, and we get a high occurrence of warped brake discs and brake juddering faults from our customers.

In areas where there are very steep inclines, drivers are more likely to keep their foot on the brakes. Some of the hills in the Hebden Bridge area are like alpine passes with 180-degree bends to contend with. When you come down these roads, you have to keep the car in low gear and be prepared for a vehicle coming up the hill without braking all the time.

This constant braking is what overheats the discs and causes them to warp and vibrate, giving your brake pedal. Some garages have a machine that will skim the brakes and stop the vibrating, but I think that once they have overheating, they do not work to their full potential, and a new set of pads and discs is the best option.

Brake Juddering Causes

Improved brake technology-Brake Juddering Causes

Over the years, car manufacturers have brought in new technology to balance out the disc overheating problem and try to eliminate the brake jerks. Including different metals that can stand more heat and also the disc parts

that now come out with holes drilled in the metal at calculated intervals for heat dispersal. This can work very well; you can see brake discs actually glowing red hot on some motorsport cars when they have to brake very often at high speed; some can be seen to be glowing white hot in the dark.

This has the same effect as a regular car driven by a regular driver. So, try to avoid heavy braking, especially at high speed.  Keep your distance, and try not to brake heavily. When you are driving down a steep hill, use a low gear and use the car’s engine as a brake. Try not to press the brake pedal constantly.

Have your brakes inspected at regular intervals-Brake Juddering Causes

when the car is serviced. Of course, the garage will pick up any worn discs or pads. Importantly, we can even spot a disc that has been overheated in the past.  Because the disc has a blue-colored sheen on it. Remember, like many other things to do with a car, prevention is better than cure.

Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre offer car and van servicing and Car Brake Repairs to all makes of vehicles.

vw-polo-winter-service

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vw-polo-winter-service

MOTs
Polo in for a winter service

vw-polo-winter-service

A Bit of Polo History – And Why a VW Polo Winter Service Still Matters in Halifax

The other day here at Pellon Tyres in Halifax, we were presented with a cracking little VW Polo for its winter service. The car was spotless, clearly well-loved, and the owner wanted it ready for whatever the good old British winter might chuck at us. Wise move if you ask me! Fresh oil, new filters, topped-up fluids — all ready for those cold Calder Valley mornings when engines like to sulk.

Plenty of motorists round here like to tie in a service when they have their MOT test, while others prefer a winter or summer service depending on how they use the car. Either way, it’s still good old-fashioned common sense — look after your motor and it’ll look after you.

Seeing that tidy Polo got me thinking about the model itself. The Polo has been knocking about British roads for donkey’s years now, and it’s become one of those cars you just expect to see in every street in Halifax, Huddersfield, and right across Yorkshire. So let’s have a quick look back at how it all began.

MOTs
VW Polo for a winter service

How the VW Polo Found Its Feet in the UK: vw-polo-winter-service

The Volkswagen Polo first arrived here in the mid-1970s, not long after its cousin, the Golf, made a name for itself. Back then petrol was cheap, cars were boxy, and most of us didn’t worry too much about emissions or gadgets. The Polo was basically Volkswagen’s answer to the rising demand for smaller, cheaper, and more economical motors — perfect for first-time drivers or families wanting a second car.

The Early Days – Mk1 (1975–1981): vw-polo-winter-service

The Mk1 Polo was a simple, straight-talking runabout — very light, very nimble, and absolutely brilliant for weaving round narrow streets and rows of terraced houses. I remember them turning up in Halifax looking a bit dainty next to the clunky British stuff of the time, but they were tough little things.

Mk2 (1981–1994) – The Yorkshire Favourite: vw-polo-winter-service

This is the Polo most of us older folk remember. The square-shaped one, often in bright reds and blues, doing the school run or parked outside holiday cottages in Bridlington. Solid as a rock. Cheap to run. Easy to fix. We’ve seen plenty of these through our doors over the years.

Mk3 (1994–2002)

VW modernised things a bit — smoother lines, better interiors, and engines that didn’t sound like they were full of spanners. These were hugely popular across West Yorkshire, especially with young drivers.

Mk4 and Mk5 (2002–2017)

By now the Polo had fully grown up. Better safety, more gadgets, nicer engines — all the things people expect these days. These models are still coming in for servicing, MOTs, and the odd winter check at our place.

Mk6 (2017–Present)

The modern Polo is miles away from that little 1970s box. Bigger, safer, faster, and full of tech you’d only have seen on much posher motors years ago. Still, the heart of it remains the same — reliable, steady, and ideal for daily running around West Yorkshire hills and valleys.

MOTs
Engine all finished

Why Winter Servicing Still Makes Sense: vw-polo-winter-service

No matter which generation of Polo you drive, a winter service can make all the difference. The cold snaps we get in Halifax — fog one day, icy rain the next — can really test a car. A simple oil and filter change helps the engine cope with cold starts, fresh coolant keeps the system stable, and checking the battery avoids those annoying “click-click” moments on frosty mornings.

And while we’re on batteries…
If you need one, we’ve got plenty over at Pellon Tyres — and we’ll even test yours for free.

(And if you fancy escaping winter altogether, there’s always the warmer months at our caravan over at Lucky Paws Holiday Home, where you can enjoy a break on the Yorkshire coast. It’s not open in winter, mind—but perfect for planning your spring getaway!)

A Little Yorkshire Nod

The Polo has become as familiar to Yorkshire roads as the sight of mist rolling over the moors or the queue outside a good chippy on a Friday night. Whether it’s a student car heading up to Leeds, a family runabout in Mirfield, or a worker’s daily commute to one of the mills or workshops across the Calder Valley, the Polo has simply become part of our landscape.

And long may it continue—especially if they all come in as tidy as the one we serviced this week!

First Time Drivers Guide

Car Owners Ripped Off

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Car Owners Ripped Off

Garages are becoming more transparent towards Car Owners

Car Owners Ripped Off

Car Owners Ripped Off

There are many recent reports about servicing a car, and independent repair garages are ripping their customers off. I am not sure what these reports actually cover? Is it the one-man band

operations, the larger independent garages or the main franchise dealers? Or are we all being “tarred with the same brush”?

I must admit, though, no matter how you try in any trade, you will not please all of your customers, and it depends on how loud the disgruntled person is and how it may affect your garage.

We can all try our best, but we are all going to get the “wrong customer at the wrong time.”. I have come to the conclusion that there is nothing much you can do about these people; they probably have other issues that are affecting their personal lives, and you are the one that they are taking it out of.

Garages should be aware of social media- Car Owners Ripped Off

Ten years ago, we would have hit “a brick wall” with the customer that you just are not going to please whatever you do. I regard myself as a very calm person, but when I have confronted some of these “raging” customers, my blood has reached boiling point, and my blood pressure has hit the roof.

I have built my garage and business plan on trust and have enjoyed customer loyalty beyond my wildest dreams. Over the years, we have had whole families return time and time again for their cars to be serviced and repaired.

Although it sounds like we have many bad-tempered and grumpy car owners, they are indeed far and few between, but when they come they can really hurt you. The big threat at the moment is to “expose “us on social media, especially on Facebook. This has happened once or twice now, but we just tell them to go ahead; we can defend ourselves and our reputation, and I am sure that other people who know them will be familiar with how they behave.

How good is the training ? Car Owners Ripped Off

Although some of the auto press appear to be concerned about the level of training that our mechanics or technicians receive (whatever we like to call them), I am not so sure. I think that the whole education of young people has been watered down in recent years here in the UK, and this includes the colleges where our young mechanics start off. Some like to think that this is progress and a new way of education, but looking back over the years, I do not think that the levels of quality have dropped very much, if any.

The difference is that our apprentices now receive on-the-job training and assessments

In my own experience, I think this works. I find that my staff will do the course work at home in their own time. Without much prompting. I remember when I was an apprentice (in the dark ages), I had to go to night school classes and hated it, now everything is more relaxed, provided the youngster does the work that we ask of them.

This brings me back to having to deal with a raging customer. Consequently, facing the customer who may be out to get us. I firmly believe that part of all staff training should be in customer care. These days, the standards for caring for the customer and their cars have risen.

For young people who are just starting out in the garage trade. Perhaps they are starting their own business for the first time. Therefore, we should take this into consideration. Even if you are just a one-man band or a mobile mechanic,. So, you should look at some of the advice that I offer. Of course, as a successful garage owner of Pellonautocentre for twenty five years.

What garages can do to cushion the aggression?

1: One of the most important things. Of course, is that you and the members of your staff should be trained. Especially in the skill of “meet and greet”. This is the first thing we teach any of our staff. Believe me people have to be taught this skill. Just a basic “yes sir/Madam, how can help you” will be just fine.

Even if you have got a hangover or just argued with your wife. This is the very basic polite response that your customer deserves and of course a smile. This also applies to answering the telephone, never let the phone ring out, train your staff to answer it politely, until a senior member of staff can take the call.

2: Escort the customer- Car Owners Ripped Off

To your reception/manager or whatever system your garage operates in. This is passing the customer onto the expert. Who will help the customer with any advice or problem that they may have. Too many businesses do not take any time out to perform these basic tasks.

So they fly about with the customer in close pursuit trying to explain that they have a problem with their brakes. For my UK readers, (a good example of what not to do can be seen in the garage that Kevin owns in Coronation Street). No time sorry too busy attitude, will not build you a successful garage business.

3: Then you are prepared for that monster customer, with his huge problem.

I know that some of the larger garages. Such as main dealerships are trained to cope with these types of situations. But in general the small rage has to cope ! Whoever the unlucky member of staff is who has to deal with the matter. If you do not have a person who is trained to cope with these things.

Of course, then you should take a deep breath. Asking the disgruntled customer to step somewhere out of the way, (this may upset other customers, who may be waiting for your attention).

4: Keep calm- Car Owners Ripped Off

may by do not take it personally. You must try to put yourself in the shoes of the customer, has he got a genuine reason to be annoyed with your garage.

Is the thing that is causing a dispute with your garage reasonable?

We have been accused of scratching a car on a couple of occasions, we know we didn’t do it but have come to some sort of compromise and kept the customer’s business try to keep in a conversation and not a “slagging match”. Resolving the dispute with the Car Owners is your ultimate goal.

5: perhaps finally, Car Owners Ripped Off

If you feel that you are getting nowhere then “hit a brick wall “. Of course you must let the customer go away and think about what you may have offered them, or not. At this stage you may have lost the person as a customer anyway. But if you have been seen to try and resolve the situation, and then you have tried your best and move on to the rest of your day.

6: As the owner of the garage business

I have learned over the years that you should not interfere in the reconciliation process and try find which member of your staff has got the correct attitude and presence of mind to deal with this type of dispute, I usually find that your manager is best capable to handle this, even if you have to give them some form of advice and training.

I also hope that nay advice that I give will help young and future garage owners to enjoy and succeed in their future Car Garage business. more reading…http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/unhappy-customers.htm

Car Servicing for Safety

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Car Servicing for Safety

Car Servicing for Safety

Vehicle servicing is very important as it helps to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones. At least once a year, and preferably when your MOT requires doing. So, it is advisable to bring your car in for a service to check. Including checking the brakes and other safety features. This will give you peace of mind when driving and will help to avoid any accidents due to mechanical failure…

I cannot overstress that car servicing is extremely, important. Your car should be serviced at least once a year for safety reasons. This includes checking all of the cars brakes. In my opinion, Car Servicing for Safety can help you avoid accidents and breakdowns. Combined with the annual MOT test here in the UK, it can also help you spot potential future problems with your car.

It is difficult not to over emphasize how very important it is to service your car at least once a year for safety reasons. Your car brakes are one of the most important Car Servicing for Safety, features on your car.

Car Servicing for Safety
Car Servicing for Safety

Ensuring car safety is a paramount responsibility for every driver. Regular servicing plays a vital role in maintaining the safety and reliability of your vehicle.

By prioritizing car servicing, you not only safeguard your own well-being but also extend the longevity and efficiency of your automobile. Let’s explore the importance of car safety and servicing and how it contributes to your overall driving experience.

    If they are not serviced regularly, they could become very costly.

    It is common knowledge in our garage industry that one brake problem can lead to another. Thus causing the final cost of repairs and replacement to be very expensive.

    Modern car engines also require clean oil and oil filters. Once again, car servicing is very important as it helps to ensure the maintenance of your car’s engine!

    At least once a year, it is advisable to bring your car in for garage car safety checks to check the engine oils and other safety features. This will give you peace of mind when driving and will help to avoid any accidents. If your car is not serviced regularly, it may not drive efficiently, when you need it to the most.

    Best car servicing for safety, can fix many small problems and give your car the maintenance it needs to operate smoothly and within the law. Car services here at Pellon Auto Centre in Halifax UK, are affordable and convenient, so don’t wait to take advantage of them.

    Car servicing is important for the safety of you and your loved ones.

    In winter time when nights are dark earlier it’s important to have your Car Servicing for Safety and your lights checked. So, at least once a year to check the lights and other safety features. This will help avoid any accidents or even a problem with the local police!

    In addition to the safety benefits of regularly Car Servicing for Safety, your car, it is also important to do this to keep your car running smoothly and efficiently. A car that is regularly serviced will run far better and will possibly last longer.

    To sum up, car safety and servicing must be a priority. Routine maintenance improves the car’s performance, extends its life, and fulfills the producer’s instructions.

    By making sure your vehicle is serviced regularly, you protect yourself, the people you are with, and other people on the street, while also ensuring your car is in proper working order and you have a secure and dependable trip. So, focus on car safety and service and receive the advantages of a safe and secure drive.

    mot testing and car servicing

    Suzuki servicing is neglected

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    Suzuki servicing is neglected

    Suzuki servicing is neglected

    No Suzuki servicing could end up costing you a fortune.

    Suzuki servicing is neglected
    © Can Stock Photo / romarti

    Suzuki servicing is neglected

    This is not just one of my rants about car servicing, but I think that it is important to give a few sad cases of what can happen when the car owner neglects to have their Suzuki serviced.

    carried out at regular intervals. Suzuki servicing is neglected

    We all should be having our Engine Oil checked at regular intervals. If your car’s engine is in good condition and operating correctly, then you should not have to use any oil to top up the engine. In my opinion, there are a few variations to this theory, and one of them is if you are travelling long distances at high speed. Then it would be possible that your car may need an overhaul when you arrive at your destination.

    Modern cars will have an oil level warning light, but older cars may not, so it is best to check the level just to be on the safe side. In fact, I had an experience myself on a recent trip to France. I drove my two-year-old Peugeot Partner van 700 miles to a Rufec in the Charente area of south-west France. The following morning, I went to the local supermarket for some odds and ends when my oil level warning light came on, much to my horror.

    I know that my staff had serviced the van before my journey: Suzuki servicing is neglected

    So, I too checked the level before I set off on my journey. I stopped the van and turned off the engine so that the oil level could settle down to get a correct oil level reading. Some dipsticks are impossible to see, but mine was just below the minimum mark on the dipstick. I was still in the supermarket car park, so I bought a two-litre can of 10W-40 diesel oil (this is what the van used).

    As I topped the engine up, I kept checking the level but found that the engine did not need much oil at all. I think some of the oil sensors are very sensitive, but your engine oil level is

    very important, just as the young guy with the Suzuki Swift was about to find out. Another important piece of advice is that when you are topping up the engine oil again, put the oil in a small amount at a time. It is just as important not to overfill the engine with too much oil; this could cause too much pressure to build up in the engine, causing all sorts of expensive repair work.

    The Suzuki did not have any servicing for two years, at least: Suzuki servicing was neglected.

    The only warning he had was when the car engine started to make very loud noises. Unfortunately, this was on the M62 motorway. Doing 70 mph in the third lane. A cloud of black smoke followed this. Frighteningly,  followed by a complete loss of power. Luckily, the guy managed to manoeuvre the Suzuki across the carriageway and onto the hard shoulder.

    He suspected the worst and called for recovery from a roadside assistance phone box on the motorway. The guy was either lucky or a very skilled driver! I am convinced that this sudden loss of power is the cause of many highway accidents.

    The recovery truck brought the car into our garage

    in Halifax, Yorkshire. Urgently, we started the postmortem on the lifeless Suzuki. We checked on the history of the car on our computer system.

    Finding out that although the car had had a few MOT tests over the past few years,. We did not have any record of Servicing a Car. We asked the guy if he took the car to any other garage for his Suzuki Servicing. Frighteningly, he told us that we were the only place that the car had come to?.

    Suzuki Servicing neglected
    Suzuki servicing is neglected

    The previous owner also brought the car into us: Suzuki servicing is neglected

    So, to be looked after, it was at the Suzuki Dealers. Indeed, the last service was three years ago. The car was a Suzuki Swift 1.6 petrol 2007 model and looked in good condition! Apart from the engine,.

    It became obvious to Ryan Linton that the engine was completely gone. So, it was caused by a lack of engine oil starving the Big End Bearings due to lack of Servicing. That is to say, damaging the crank and much more.

    The owner of the car was a 26-year-old man: Suzuki servicing is neglected

    Consequently, he led a busy life and did not have time for his car. Hence, this is a thing that is most common these days. As for the car, we found that it would be more economical to fit a reconditioned engine. With the whole job costing around £2500 to the customer,.

    The lesson to be learned is to have your servicing carried out at some sort of regular interval. Finally, this guy is not the first and will not be the last. But look at the price that he had to pay in the end?.

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    Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

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    The Truth About Headlight Bulb Fitting – Fair Prices at Pellon Tyres, Halifax

    (By Eric Roberts – Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, Halifax)

    At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we’ve always prided ourselves on being open and honest with our customers. It’s the Yorkshire way, after all. We tell it as it is, and we believe in giving people proper value for money.

    One area that’s caused a bit of confusion lately is headlight bulb replacement — something that used to be a quick five-minute job but now, with modern car designs, can take anything from 30 minutes to over an hour on some models.

    💡 Why Are Bulbs So Hard to Change These Days? Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

    Older cars were a mechanic’s dream — pop the bonnet, twist the bulb holder, and job done. But these days, many modern cars are built so compactly that to reach the bulb, you sometimes have to remove the battery, the air filter housing, or even part of the wheel arch liner!

    For example, on some models such as the Renault Mégane, Peugeot 207, or certain Volkswagens, the headlight bulbs are tucked right behind solid panels or crammed up against the inner wing. It’s not that garages want to make things difficult—it’s just how the cars are designed now.

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    Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

    🔧 Our Policy on Bulb Fitting Charges: Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

    Here at Pellon Tyres, we like to keep things fair and simple.

    • If a bulb can be replaced easily, we’ll usually fit it straight away at a minimal charge, or often as part of another job if the car’s already in for service or MOT.

    • If we do need to remove parts or spend longer getting access, we’ll always let you know first and agree on a reasonable labour charge before we touch a thing.

    We don’t believe in hiding costs behind “free fitting” claims and then charging extra elsewhere. You’ll always know what you’re paying for and why.

    🧾 How We Differ from the Big Chains: Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

    You might’ve seen offers from the big national chains shouting about “Free bulb ”fitting!”—but it’s not always quite as free as it sounds.

    In reality, those “free fitting” offers often apply only to a few simple jobs. As soon as a bit of trim, the battery, or the wheel arch liner needs to come off, a separate labour charge kicks in.

    We’d rather be honest from the start — we’ll quote you properly for both the bulb and the fitting time (if needed), so there are no surprises and no hidden extras.

    We stock a full range of quality bulbs too — from simple stop/tail bulbs to long-life and LED options — all at sensible prices.

    🚘 Examples of Tricky Bulb Jobs: Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

    Some of the more awkward cars we’ve seen over the years include:

    Renault Mégane / Clio – access through the wheel arch liner!

    Peugeot 207 and 308 – battery and air filter housing often need removing.

    Ford Focus (certain models) – the entire headlight unit can need loosening.

    Volkswagen Golf / Passat – cramped engine bays with fiddly clips.

    Vauxhall Astra (newer models) – bulbs buried behind bulkhead panels.

    These aren’t five-minute jobs, and we think it’s only fair that our time and care are reflected in the price — but always reasonably.

    🤝 Fair, Honest, and Local – The Pellon Way

    We’ve built our business in Halifax on trust. We’re not a chain, and we don’t believe in gimmicks. Whether it’s tyres, servicing, MOTs, or bulb replacements, you’ll always get a fair price, proper workmanship, and a friendly bit of Yorkshire honesty.

    If your bulb’s gone and you’re not sure how tricky it’ll be to change, just pop in — we’ll take a quick look and let you know before doing anything.

    Contact Pellon Tyres in Halifax to book a repair, bulb fitting, or service.

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    Servicing Hybrid and Electric Cars in Halifax – Yes, We Can!

    (By Eric Roberts – Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, Halifax)

    As more drivers in Halifax, Elland, and Brighouse switch to electric or hybrid cars, one question keeps coming up in our reception:
    “Can you service my hybrid or EV – or do I have to go to the dealer?”

    The simple answer is yes, we can!

    Here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, our technicians are fully trained to service, maintain, and repair both hybrid and fully electric vehicles, using the proper diagnostic tools, genuine parts, and manufacturer-approved oils and fluids. You don’t have to pay dealer prices to keep your warranty valid.

    ⚡ Hybrid and EV Servicing Explained: Servicing-Hybrid-Electric Cars-Halifax

    Electric and hybrid cars might seem like new technology, but underneath, they still share plenty in common with petrol and diesel models—they’ve got suspension, brakes, tyres, filters, air conditioning, and safety systems that all need regular care.

    The difference is in how the power is delivered and managed—so servicing means checking the electric motor system, high-voltage cables, charging connections, and battery condition as well as all the usual mechanical parts.

    Our trained technicians use the correct insulated tools and follow high-voltage safety procedures, just as you’d expect from a professional independent garage.

    👉 Learn more about our car servicing options here

    🛠️ Dealer Standards, Local Prices: Servicing-Hybrid-Electric Cars-Halifax

    Many hybrid and EV owners are told they must return to the main dealer for servicing. That’s no longer the case—as long as the work is carried out using bona fide parts and manufacturer-approved oils and fluids, your warranty remains intact.

    At Pellon Autocentre, we only fit quality OEM-spec parts and use the correct oils and fluids recommended by your vehicle’s maker, whether it’s Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, or BMW.

    So you’ll get the same level of care you’d expect at a dealership — but at honest, local Halifax prices.

    🔋 Gold and Silver Service Packages – Now for Hybrids & EVs

    We now include hybrid and electric cars in our popular Gold and Silver Service packages:

    • Silver Service – ideal for vehicles that cover fewer miles. Includes a full mechanical inspection, oil and filter change (if applicable), and key safety checks.

    • Gold Service – our top-tier option, covering everything from brake inspections and fluid checks to a complete system diagnostic and battery health assessment.

    If your hybrid or EV is due its MOT test, you can even book the service and MOT together — one visit, one spend a year, as we like to say here in Halifax!

    👉 Book your hybrid or EV service and MOT together

    🚘 Why Regular Servicing Still Matters for EVs: Servicing-Hybrid-Electric Cars-Halifax

    It’s a common myth that electric cars don’t need servicing. While it’s true they don’t need oil changes or exhaust work, they still have many components that wear out or need adjusting, including:

    • Brake pads and discs (especially due to regenerative braking differences)

    • Tyres and suspension

    • Cabin filters and cooling systems

    • Software updates and diagnostics

    • Battery cooling and condition checks

    Keeping your EV or hybrid serviced regularly ensures safety, performance, and battery longevity — and helps retain its resale value too.

    🌍 Halifax’s Go-To Garage for Hybrid and Electric Servicing

    At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we’ve always moved with the times. From carburettors to charging ports, we’ve been keeping Calderdale’s cars running smoothly since 1989.

    We now welcome drivers from all over Halifax, Elland, Brighouse, and surrounding towns who are making the switch to greener motoring.

    So whether you drive a Toyota Prius, Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona Electric, or a BMW i3, you can count on us for honest advice, fair pricing, and proper servicing by people who care about doing things right.

    Pop in and chat with our reception team — we’ll talk you through what’s needed and book you in at a time that suits.

    👉 Book your Hybrid or EV service in Halifax

    🔑 The Pellon Promise: Servicing-Hybrid-Electric Cars-Halifax

    • We use genuine parts and manufacturer-approved oils.

    • We follow all EV safety standards and diagnostic procedures.

    • We offer Gold and Silver service packages for every type of car.

    • We’re local, friendly, and proud to serve Halifax, Elland, and Brighouse.